Buttercream Frosting is a classic option for cakes and cupcakes. This is the only recipe you will ever need for both chocolate and vanilla buttercream frosting. It is perfection every single time.
Looking for the perfect buttercream frosting? Look no further! This frosting is easy to make, holds up to piping designs, and is practically perfect every single time. Buttercream is our go-to frosting for most cakes, and it’s pretty easy to see why once you’ve tried it. It is perfectly sweet and creamy, and tastes fantastic. We can eat this stuff by the spoonful, however, we promise it is even better on top of a cake or cupcakes.
What kind of butter should I use?
When it comes to making buttercream frosting, the type of butter that you use can make a big difference in the flavor and consistency of the frosting. Butter provides the structure for buttercream. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, but It is important to use real, high-quality butter in this recipe, with a higher fat content and lower water content. Substituting the butter with margarine or shortening is not recommended and will produce lower-quality results. Be sure that the butter is at room temperature for the smoothest frosting. Cold butter does not whip well.
Other Types of Buttercreams
Italian vs. American Buttercream:
Italian buttercream is a meringue-based frosting while American buttercream is a butter-based frosting. Italian buttercream is made by pouring a hot simple syrup over whipped egg whites. It is then whipped into creamy, velvety frosting. It has a more white appearance than American buttercream which tends to have a yellow tint.
What is French Buttercream?
French buttercream is similar to Italian buttercream, but has a more shiny appearance. A simple syrup is heated to the softball stage and then mixed with whipped egg whites and butter to form a smooth frosting that has a shimmery shine.
Troubleshooting Grainy Buttercream
There are a few different reasons why buttercream might end up with a grainy texture. Here are some of the solutions you can try:
Be sure the butter is completely softened. One of the most common reasons that buttercream can end up with a grainy texture is because the butter was too cold and not able to fully combine with the sugar. Let your frosting sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours, allowing it to warm up and come to room temperature, and then mix again. If you are in a hurry, wrap the bowl in a warm towel or create a double boiler on the stove, then mix again. Your goal is to warm up the butter in the frosting so that you can combine it completely with the sugar.
Add more liquid. Adding in liquid like milk or water may help your frosting emulsify, removing the grainy texture. Add your liquid 1/2 to 1 tablespoon at a time. If you add too much liquid, your frosting will not be able to hold its shape.
Mix longer. Sometimes the issue with your frosting is that you simply did not mix it long enough for the sugar to combine completely with the butter. Try mixing it for 1 minute longer and see if that improves the frosting.
Storage Instructions
When it comes to storing buttercream frosting, there are several options to consider. The first is to keep the frosting at room temperature, in an airtight container. This is a good option if you will be using the frosting within the same day. However, if you need to store the frosting for a longer period of time, it is best to refrigerate it. Place the frosting in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before using, let it come to room temperature. If there are any lumps, use a hand mixer to smooth it out.
If you need to store the frosting for an even longer period of time, you can freeze it. Place the frosting in an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to use the frosting, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature and stir it well before using.
Related Recipes
If you like this recipe, you may be interested in these other delicious cake recipes to pair with your buttercream frosting:
Watch the video below where Rachel will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.
Can this be made ahead of time and refrigerated.
Yes it can.
Do you substitute the same amount of almond extract as it calls for vanilla? You say in the cake recipe to use almond extract in the frosting but this recipe says vanilla.
Yes, it would be the same amount.
Super delicious frosting!!! It was perfect for piping and not too sweet!! 10 out of 10 for sure.
I added 2 oz of cream cheese, mixed it with butter and vanilla then the powdered sugar..was absolutely yummy took away some of the sweetness..but not to much.
How much frosting for 48 cupcakes
That really depends on how you are frosting them. Just a dab with a butter knife? A giant swirl? A design with a piping tip? The amount of frosting you need will vary for all of those.
Making your Chocolate Cake today and my little one is requesting white frosting instead of chocolate. How much to cover your most delicious chocolate cake?!? Than you!!!
2-3x this recipe depending on how thick you layer the frosting between layers. The chocolate cake is quite large.
I’m planning to use this frosting with the Amazing Chocolate Cake, however would like to make it mint. Should I just substitute peppermint extract for vanilla, or do I need to adjust the amount?
How much of this frosting would I need to cover your Funfetti cake?
2 to 3 times the amount. You can use 2 if you do a thin layer of frosting, but you’ll need x3 if you want to really load it up with frosting.
If you don’t use Salted Butter, how much salt should I add in?
Just a pinch.
At what point is it best to add food coloring? I have some gel color that I plan to add for my daughter’s birthday cupcakes.
Thanks!
I add it last.
I sent you an email Beth. I’m not sure what kind of trouble you might be experiencing. It should open up a new window or tab with a clean printable recipe. Maybe you have a popup blocker that is interfering?